**Pilotage Plan from Patchogue, NY to Hampton Bays, NY****Route Overview**This trip will take you from the charming coastal town of Patchogue to the scenic destination of Hampton Bays, providing an exciting yet safe journey along the beautiful South Shore of Long Island. This route is suitable for experienced boaters looking to enjoy sights of pristine coastlines and the rich maritime culture found in this area. **Departure from Patchogue**Your adventure begins in Patchogue, a bustling boating community. Before you depart, make sure to check local weather forecasts and navigational conditions. As you set out, head southeast towards the mouth of the Patchogue River, which is a relatively calm and wide estuary, making for an easy exit into the Great South Bay.**Navigational Considerations**As you enter Great South Bay, maintain a vigilant watch for navigation markers and channel buoys. These aids are essential to avoid shallow areas and shoals, so ensure your charts are up-to-date and you have a solid understanding of your marine navigation tools. **Points of Shelter and Interest**1. **Bay Shore**: A quick detour to the north will bring you to Bay Shore, where you can find marinas and fuel docks should you need them, along with a quaint waterfront area perfect for an exploration break. 2. **Fire Island**: Heading southwest across the bay, you'll be nearing Fire Island. This iconic barrier island is famous for its stunning beaches and nature trails. Should you encounter inclement weather, the eastern and western inlets around Fire Island provide natural shelter. The Captree State Park at the western end is an excellent anchorage and offers stunning views.**Navigational Aids**As you approach the Fire Island Inlet, you will find marked navigation buoys guiding your way. Pay special attention to the Fire Island Lighthouse, which serves as a prominent landmark. The lighthouse is well worth a visit if you choose to drop anchor and explore on land. Be sure to comply with the rules pertaining to the surrounding environment, especially as much of this area is protected wildlife habitat.**Into Shinnecock Bay**Once you navigate through the inlet, you'll enter Shinnecock Bay - a crucial area to monitor for winds and tides, which can change quickly. The bay is scenic and offers charming vistas, but remember that boat traffic can increase, so maintain a safe distance from other vessels. **Final Leg to Hampton Bays**Continuing your journey, you will have a short ride across Shinnecock Bay to reach Hampton Bays. The surrounding area is dotted with marinas and eateries, making it a wonderful destination for boaters. Ensure you remain aware of local speed restrictions, particularly near the marinas and residential areas.**Regulations and Local Hazards**While enjoying your trip, be mindful of the following:- **Speed Limits**: Adhere to speed limits around marinas and residential areas, especially in Shinnecock Bay.- **Restricted Zones**: Certain parts of Shinnecock Bay may have restrictions in place, including protected fish breeding grounds; be sure to respect these marked areas.- **Weather Monitoring**: With Long Island's unpredictable weather, always stay updated on local weather conditions throughout your trip. **Conclusion**Your journey from Patchogue to Hampton Bays offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, vibrant coastal communities, and opportunities to explore. By following this pilotage plan and taking safety seriously, you can ensure a rewarding experience on the water. For navigation support during your trip, I recommend using apps such as *Savvy Navvy*, which provides user-friendly chart plots and weather updates, and other marine navigation tools that can enhance your trip. Safe sailing and enjoy the stunning vistas along Long Island's shores!